When Austin’s live‑music buzz meets limestone canyons and rivers, you get the Hill Country—an easy escape filled with tasting rooms, swimming holes, and small‑town charm. Start by collecting your vehicle at Austin Airport car rental, then take looping drives west toward Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Johnson City, Fredericksburg, and beyond.
Build your perfect day
- Water first: Timed reservations are common at popular spots. Arrive early at Blue Hole (Wimberley) or Jacob’s Well (seasonal) when available.
- Wine & food: Follow US‑290 to sample Hill Country wineries; designate a driver and keep a cooler for snacks.
- Small‑town stops: Driftwood BBQ, Blanco’s historic square, and Fredericksburg’s Main Street offer easy parking and walkable blocks.
Routes & practical tips
- Choose the right wheels: A compact SUV fits gravel lots and picnic gear. Compare Austin car hire. Brand loyalists can pick Alamo car hire at AUS.
- River safety: Bring water shoes and check flows before swimming; never leave valuables visible.
- Extend to the Alamo City: If you’re continuing south, San Antonio car rental options make one‑way plans simple.
- Evening return: Aim to be back before late‑night traffic on I‑35.
Why Hola Car Rentals
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
- No additional fees—save up to 60% guaranteed.
- All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage.
- Maximum liability coverage on selected itineraries.
Music in your ears, Hill Country views out the window—book with Hola Car Rentals in Austin and set out for a sunny day you’ll talk about all year.
Best seasons & crowd‑beating moves
- Spring wildflowers: March–April bring bluebonnets along ranch roads—build extra time for photo stops.
- Summer swims: Mid‑May through September is prime river time; check day‑use reservations in advance.
- Weekday wins: Popular parks are calmer Monday–Thursday.
Pickups & preferences
- Loyalty programs: If you prefer a specific counter, compare partners such as Hertz car hire at AUS while booking through Hola Car Rentals.
- One‑way ideas: Continue to San Antonio for a River Walk evening, then return your vehicle there the next morning.
Wide skies, creekside picnics, and small‑town flavor—the Hill Country is an easy “yes.” Reserve with Hola Car Rentals and make your Austin base the start of something sunny.
Sample loop: AUS → Dripping Springs → Johnson City → Fredericksburg → Wimberley → AUS. Adjust based on swimming or tasting priorities.
Parking notes: Many wineries have free lots; towns may use metered spaces—keep change or a card ready for pay stations.
Kid‑friendly stops: Blanco State Park’s riverside lawns, and the Science Mill in Johnson City make easy breaks for families.
Local etiquette: Country roads are narrow—use turnouts to let faster drivers pass and watch for cyclists on weekends.
Fuel & provisions: Top up before long loops; smaller towns may close earlier mid‑week. Keep a cooler with water and fruit for a no‑rush picnic.
Add a second day: Make it an overnight in Fredericksburg and return via Luckenbach for live music.
Three easy loops
- Wimberley Waters: Driftwood → Wimberley → San Marcos Springs → return.
- Wine & Views: Dripping Springs → Johnson City → Fredericksburg → Willow City Loop → return.
- Small‑Town Sampler: Blanco → Luckenbach → Boerne → Dripping Springs → return.
Local tips
- Respect private property on country lanes and leave no trace at swimming spots.
- Evenings cool down quickly after summer storms—carry a light jacket.
Driving times vary with traffic: allow 30–45 minutes to reach Dripping Springs from AUS, about 75–90 minutes to Fredericksburg without stops, and extra time on weekends when wineries are busiest. If schedules allow, plan your longest drive for early morning and save the return for after dinner, when roads are quieter.
